By conversing with native speakers in small groups, you can strengthen your English speaking skills. You will enhance your internationally accepted English proficiency by speaking with advisors from various regions.
Contents
For more details, please read these documents. (Japanese edition only)
- 2025 ELC User Guide (p.2-p.5)
- ELC Learning Assignments (Including TOEIC-IP) and Grade Reflection
- How to make a reservation of ELC programs (in preparation）
How to Use
- Sessions are primarily conducted in person on weekdays (Monday–Friday) during the spring and fall semesters. However, some sessions may be held online.
- Advance reservations are required. Please review Rules for Reservation and Participation under “Online Reservation Process” before booking.
- Free Talk sessions may be attended without a reservation. For details, please refer to Rules for Reservation and Participation under “Drop-in Participation.”
- Sessions are held at the ELC (Research and Lecture Building, Room 304), while online sessions are conducted via Zoom. Free Talk are held exclusively at the English Lounge (4th floor, Research and Lecture Building).
Types of Sessions
Regular Session (RS)
- A session where you can casually discuss predetermined topics each week.
- Participants will read the assignments and prepare in advance.
Academic Session (AS)
- We will discuss various academic issues, exchanging opinions with other participants to delve deeper into the subjects.
- Recommended for pre-study abroad preparation.
- Participants will read the assignments and prepare in advance.
Practical Session (PS)
- We will discuss topics closely related to university life.
- The scenarios are set in college life and are also beneficial for students considering studying abroad.
- Participants will read the assignments and prepare in advance.
Business Session (BS)
- We will cover scenarios such as business meetings and negotiations, offering practical exercises in proposing ideas and expressing opinions in a business context.
- Participants will prepare in advance according to the theme.
Discussion Session (DS)
- We will practice discussing based on English newspaper articles.
- You will learn points on how to conduct discussions in advance, practice them in sessions.
- Participants will read the assignments and prepare in advance.
Strategy Session (ST)
- Sessions to learn conversation strategies.
- Limited-time session held only in April and May.
- It is coordinated with topics from the regular sessions.
Free Talk (FT)
No specific theme is set; participants are free to discuss topics of their choice. Sessions are held at the English Lounge (4th floor, Research and Lecture Building) from Tuesday to Friday (as of the Fall 2025 semester).
▶ Fall 2025 English Lounge Session Schedule available in Japanese only
Session Schedule (Fall 2025)
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Pre-Assignments and Manuals
Topics and Pre-assignments
Please check the Speaking Session on Moodle for Open Education (MOE).
Discussion Session Manual
- Discussion Session Manual Video
The password to access the video and the Discussion Session Manual booklet (PDF) can be obtained from MOE.
Session Levels
Sessions are divided based on English proficiency levels. Below are the CEFR levels (guidelines) targeted for each session’s objectives. Let’s actively challenge ourselves to achieve higher levels as well.
| Target CEFR Level * | TYPES OF SESSIONs |
|---|---|
| A2/B1 | Strategy *Only available in April and May |
| B1 | Regular B1 (Basic), Practical |
| B2 | Regular B2 (Intermediate) |
| B2/C1 | Academic, Business, Discussion |
Time Schedule
One session is 40 minutes long. Please note that this differs from regular class time.
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English Advisors
Akari (English Learning Advising: Mondays and Wednesdays)
Ana （Speaking Session: Thursdays)
Hi there! My name is Ana and I have many interests, but my areas of expertise are writing, languages, and communications. In fact, prior to becoming an educator I was a polyglot translator and interpreter (I trained in conference interpreting), although I had other roles as well. Having lived in seven countries and traveled to many more, I am rather international, but I am mostly from the suburbs of New York City. I became an educator because I like to help people and I need to always be learning something new otherwise my brain turns to porridge, and teaching actually involves a lot of learning! I hope to share my love of learning, languages and all things international with TUFS students. Oh, and if you need book suggestions you can come to me anytime because I love reading. One thing I really dislike, though, is parties, for I am an introvert.
Ashley （Speaking Session and Writing Support Desk: Fridays）
Briar （Speaking Session and Writing Support Desk: Fridays）
Briar Pelletier is a PhD candidate in Visual Culture at Nagoya University, with a special interest in visual cultural communication as seen in international art exchange programs. She is also an editor and grant writer for an academic NPO, and hopes her experience in writing can help students at ELC. Outside of academia, Briar loves to create things, such as writing, gardening, and embroidery. Originally from the United States, Briar speaks English and Japanese.
Kevin （Speaking Session (Free Talk) : Tuesdays and Thursdays)
Hi! I’m Kevin from the Philippines, and I’ve been living in Japan for six years. There’s still so much to explore in Japan—and that excites me every day! I’m currently a PhD student at TUFS, researching the connections between language, migration, power, gender, and identity.
While I love academic conversations, I’m also up for chatting about anything— K-pop, overtourism, politics, cheap eats, Matsuya vs. Sukiya vs. Yoshinoya, or even tips on charming your crush (still learning myself, though!).
As someone who’s also studied English, I understand the challenges—and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I look forward to talking with you and hearing your thoughts and stories!
Mike （Speaking Session (Free Talk) : Thursdays)
Monique （Speaking Session and Writing Support Desk: Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Hi! My name is Monique. I’m from New York City and have been living in Japan for 6 years. I started as an ELC advisor in 2025. I was previously a writing program manager, so I can work with you to check the clarity and flow in your writing assignments at the Writing Support Desk. I have Speaking Sessions too, so you can speak to me there as well! I enjoy traveling, watching cooking shows, and walks around nature—it’s so relaxing to walk around campus and take in the view! Thanks for reading and I look forward to meeting you!
Paula（Speaking Session : Mondays and Thursdays)
Hello! My name is Paula Bailey and I am from America. In 2018, I earned my Masters degree in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Next year (2025) I celebrate my ten year “Japanniversary” (anniversary of living in Japan). I have been working as an ELC advisor since 2023. In ELC’s Regular Speaking Sessions we talk about different topics each week. I can help you improve your speaking by pointing out mistakes in your vocabulary or pronunciation. The most important thing is that you are able to effectively communicate the idea or opinion you wish to express, so don’t worry too much about minor mistakes! My hobbies include drawing and painting, reading and studying Japanese language. One thing I value is delicious food—such food could be healing as it energizes our spirits! Thank you for reading my self-introduction!
Wyatt （Speaking Session and Writing Support Desk : Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays)
Hello! My name is Wyatt, and I have been teaching English at TUFS for the past 8 years. Living in Japan has been a wonderful experience, and I’ve enjoyed immersing myself in the rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Outside the classroom, I’m passionate about hiking and exploring new travel destinations. I love discovering hidden trails and experiencing the serene beauty of Japan’s natural scenery. Whether it’s climbing mountains or traveling to different parts of the country, I always find inspiration in my adventures. Looking forward to sharing my love for language and travel with you!